Dear Mario

This heartfelt children’s book about loss helps young readers navigate their grief with
love, remembrance, and healing.

For many of us, our first experience with death and dying involves a beloved pet. Writing a
letter to that pet can help us process our feelings. That is what you’ll discover in Dear
Mario.

In this story of a young boy facing grief for the first time, Peter writes a letter to Mario, the
family Chihuahua, because he needs to tell him a few final things. Like how much he loved
rubbing Mario’s belly and watching him run in the park. And how amazing it was that
Mario knew whenever Peter didn’t feel well.

But most of all, Peter wants Mario to know that he loves him and misses him and will never
forget him.

With Dear Mario, young readers can process their grief and cherish the love they shared.
This beautifully illustrated picture book about animal friendship is a touching choice for
families looking for a dog memorial book for kids—or just a comforting story about coping
with loss and saying goodbye.

“Whether your own Mario is a big shaggy one or a little bundle of affection, this touching tale
helps kids and grown-ups come to terms with the loss of their own Mario. Someone once said a
dog’s life lasts just a few years of ours, but we’re here for all of theirs. Peter and Mario show us
that even after we are parted, the love never leaves us.”
—Patt Morrison, author, broadcaster,
dog devotee